Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Quadriceps Muscle Architecture and Functional Abilities in Children With Hemiplegia

One method to evaluate muscle function and morphology is through skeletal muscle architecture analysis, which examines the geometric arrangement of muscle fibers using non-invasive ultrasound techniques. Key parameters include muscle thickness, which correlates with strength, and pennation angle, which affects force transmission to tendons. Measurements are conducted with participants supine, allowing stabilization, and involve high-quality ultrasound imaging (B-mode) for consistent results. An experienced researcher measures muscle thickness and pennation angle using standardized protocols and software for analysis, ensuring accuracy across assessments.

The isometric strength of knee extensor muscles will be measured using a handheld dynamometer, with a standardized position. A 'make' test will require participants to exert maximum effort against a constant resistance for 3 to 5 seconds. Children will be positioned with the dynamometer on the anterior tibia, while seated with knees and hips flexed at 90 degrees. Each child will have two practice trials before performing three trials, receiving strong encouragement to maximize force output, which will be recorded. If a participant cannot effectively isolate the muscle group or generate sufficient force, a zero score will be noted.

The Scale evaluates five reciprocal lower extremity movements: hip flexion-extension, knee flexion-extension, ankle dorsiflexion-plantar flexion, subtalar inversion-eversion, and toe flexion/extension. The hip test is performed in a side-lying position, while the others are conducted in a seated position. Each movement is passively executed by the tester using a three-second verbal cadence. Each limb is assessed separately, focusing on selective joint movement and avoiding extraneous motions. Movements are scored on a scale of 0-2: 2 (Normal) for complete movements within the cadence, 1 (Impaired) for partial isolated movements or deviations, and 0 (Unable) for lack of movement initiation. The total score per limb can reach a maximum of 10.

The observational gait scale will be used to analyze typical walk viewed on split-screen video in slow motion. The children will be instructed to walk, and videos will be taken from the side. Children will be videotaped, six sections will be tested to evaluate knee and ankle kinematics (Knee position in mid stance, Initial foot contact, Foot contact at mid stance, Base of support, Gait assistive devices, degree of change) with a total score of 22 on each limb.